Annual toy drive kicks off

For more than twenty-years the Free Press and Salvation Army have partnered together during the holidays to ensure those in need have something to open on Christmas day.

Billy Moore, Free Press advertising sales manager, said Operation Community Christmas has been successful in the past, but lately it’s been a bit lean.

“Over the last few years it’s kind of dropped off. So, we really encourage our readers, churches and civic organizations to really get together and bring toys either to the Free Press or Salvation Army,” he said.

Salvation Army Captain Curtis Kurtz said to be a part of the program, needy families have to go through an application process during late October and Early November.

He said this year in Lenoir and Greene counties, 500 families have been accepted into the program, which equates out to 1,186 children in need of assistance this holiday season.

Kurtz said the program helps to raise the spirits of children during the holidays.

“Having something to open under the tree is meaningful because it’s a gift and will have precious memories for that child,” he said

He said the Salvation Army has partnered with organizations on the drive and makes sure that there are no “duplications” in donations.

Moore said he sees the newspaper being involved in the toy drive as an advantage.

“By us being the newspaper, we can get the word out to the community and business to help support our toy drive,” he said.

Free Press Publisher Vernon DeBolt said he is glad the newspaper can be a part of the toy drive.

“I think it’s a great thing that we can do for the community and a great thing we can do for the Salvation Army to help the community. They are one of the best organizations and non-profits helping people that there is,” he said.

Kurtz said it is his goal to have at least one gift for every needy child this year.

Those who wish to donate can drop off toys at the Salvation Army, 2110 N. Queen Street or The Free Press, 2103 N. Queen Street.

The drive runs through Dec. 16.

Noah Cark can be reached at 252-559-1073 or Noah.Clark@Kinston.com. Follow him on Twitter @nclark763.